Reflections on Presentations  

The Visionary Leader

By: Sheena

          In reflecting on Sheena's presentation of The Visionary Leader, I noticed a philosophy that is prevalent throughout the EdD program at ASU-Jonesboro.  That is the philosophy that participative governance and empowerment is the most appropriate way to organize an institution.  According to the presentation, a visionary leader is one who empowers employees to have input and decision-making roles within their organizations.  It is also noted that a visionary leader should build a culture that values and encourages a participative environment.

          I believe that partnership within an organization is an appropriate form of institutional organization.  My work place, more than the cohort, has taught me this.  It is frustrating working for those who value bureaucracy rather than partnership.  I am tired of having administrators "spout off" such catch phrases as "participative governance" and "ownership" only to disregard any dialogue that doesn't originate with the administration.

          It seems to me that individuals go to "the other university" to get degrees in administration and come back knowing nothing about true leadership.  These individuals come in with policy manuals and procedures and appear to use their positions to increase the bureaucracy in the institution.  I believe this is a means for them to build their power structures while excluding valuable individuals and their ideas who care deeply for the institution.  What are these people being taught?

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